Consumer TechConsumer technology is going to exist indefinitely, perhaps for as long as the human species exists. At CleanTechnica, we try to feature consumer technologies that help to reduce global warming pollution and other types of pollution. For example: electric cars, solar panels, bikes, energy efficient appliances and electronics, and green smartphone apps. Keep an eye on this category for all sorts of fun and cool, helpful consumer technology.

Good news for our waste haulers and urban environment — Wrightspeed’s new series hybrid powertrain retrofit sets a high standard anywhere waste needs picked up. Wrightspeed’s series hybrid retrofit waste haulers makes sense, saves money, and protects the environment. According to GM-Volt.com, waste haulers that use this retrofit can reportedly be cleaner (all things considered) than battery-electric waste haulers.

“Even if Wrightspeed’s Route HD powertrain is never plugged in,” says founder and CEO, Ian Wright, “it’s cleaner than an EV, because the exhaust emissions are lower per kilowatt-hour than the average mix of U.S. power stations.”

Obviously this is a qualified statement and compares actual emissions for the on-board turbine to an average per-vehicle emissions profile for EVs using grid power across America.

If a pure EV is powered by renewable energy such as solar, wind, or hydro, then the EV would be cleaner, and truly “zero emissions” not only from the tailpipe, but from the energy source used to charge its batteries.

Jeff Cobb continues: “The company only makes series hybrid kits…. A garbage hauler that was an early demonstration vehicle, and the subject of this news, has a GVWR of around 54,000 pounds…” For more details on that, check out Jeff’s post.

Reflecting a bit, Jeff also adds, “it’s almost ironic that technology more advanced than many elite cars is being used for such pedestrian duties as picking up garbage.”

No, not ironic but a blessing. We have so much waste, minimizing the problems revolving around humankind’s waste is a key to a cleaner future, a sustainable future.

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About the Author

Cynthia Shahan is an Organic Farmer, Licensed Acupuncturist, Anthropologist, and mother of four unconditionally loving spirits, teachers, and environmentally conscious beings who have lit the way for me for decades.

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